WHen you talking about interviewing stakeholders, do you mean that they should already have "product strategy"? Can UX Strategy exist without Product Strategy?
Thanks for asking! We work with all kinds of clients. Some know exactly what they want, which makes designing easier. Others might not have a clear plan. Even though it's great when clients have a strategy, it's okay if they don't. We talk a lot with them to understand their needs so we can make good design choices and help them figure out the best way to improve their product.